EU Commercial Vehicle Sales Weak in Q1

Posted on 1 May 2025 by Ken Zino

The first quarter of 2025 was feeble for EU’s commercial vehicle market looking at data released today by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, aka ACEA derived from its French name. (read AutoInformed.com on: Hybrid-Electric Cars Dominate EU Car Sales)*

“Significant declines in key markets along with sluggish economic growth, lower prior order intake, and the complex regulatory landscape contributed to the business uncertainty,” ACEA said. Continue reading →

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FuelCell Energy and Toyota Get DOE’s Better Project Award

Posted on 1 May 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on FuelCell Energy and Toyota Get DOE’s Better Project Award

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FuelCell Energy and Toyota Motor North America (NYSE: TM) today announced that the first-of-its-kind “Tri-gen” facility at the Port of Long Beach has received the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2025 Better Project Award.* Commissioned by Toyota and owned and operated by FuelCell Energy, Tri-gen produces three products for port vehicle processing operations at Toyota Logistics Services: renewable electricity, renewable hydrogen and usable water.

“Tri-gen is an excellent example of FuelCell Energy’s game-changing innovation, delivering solutions that empower our customers’ businesses with clean energy without requiring them to sacrifice their established business models or operations,” FuelCell Energy CEO and President Jason Few said. “We were proud of our collaboration with Toyota to create solutions that are as practical as they are transformative and to be part of the Port of Long Beach’s efforts to improve the air quality in its community for its residents.” Continue reading →

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GM 2025 Guidance – Trump Tariff Exposure $4-5 Billion!

Posted on 1 May 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on GM 2025 Guidance - Trump Tariff Exposure $4 - 5 Billion!

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General Motors (NYSE: GM) this morning issued its 2025 full year earnings guidance after a delay earlier this week caused by the ongoing chaos of the Trump tariff pandemic. While the goals and rhetoric  of the current mis-administration continue to fluctuate wildly behind a non-transparent word barrage of lies, false facts, and ignorant assertions, General Motors remains focused and amazingly consistent in stating its goals and steps taken to achieve them given the growing Trump disease infested swamp in Washington. (read AutoInformed.com on: GM Cancels Q1 Earnings Call as Trump Chaos Prevails)

“We are updating our full-year EBIT-adjusted guidance to a range of $10 billion – $12.5 billion, including a current tariff exposure of $4 billion – $5 billion,” said GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra. “We look forward to maintaining our strong dialogue with the Administration on trade and other policies as they continue to evolve. As you know, there are ongoing discussions with key trade partners that may also have an impact. We will continue to be nimble and disciplined and update you as we know more.” Continue reading →

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Honda 2026 CR-V Adds New TrailSport Hybrid

Posted on 30 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Honda 2026 CR-V Adds New TrailSport Hybrid

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Honda (7267.T and NYSE: HMC) said today that the 2026 model year CR-V in four trim levels adds More standard equipment, and there will be a new TrailSport Hybrid. It uses fourth-generation Honda two-motor hybrid system. The Honda CR-V lineup now includes three turbocharged trims: LX, EX and EX-L, plus four hybrid-powered trims: Sport Hybrid, the new TrailSport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid and the range-topping Sport Touring Hybrid. The hybrid-electric models are positioned at the top of the lineup and represent more than 50% of CR-V sales.*

“Our best-selling Honda CR-V is now even more of an industry benchmark with the addition of a rugged new TrailSport model, which has proven to be incredibly popular on our light trucks,” said Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda National Auto Sales. “The combination of rugged design elements and capabilities, incredible on-road dynamics and hybrid powertrain makes the Honda CR-V a more compelling SUV than ever before.” Continue reading →

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Penske Automotive Group – Q1 2025 +13% Net Income

Posted on 30 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Penske Automotive Group - Q1 2025 +13% Net Income

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Penske Automotive Group (NYSE: PAG)* today posted Q1 2025 financial results that showed record first quarter revenue with an increase of 2% to $7.6 Billion. Adjusted earnings before taxes increased 5% to $310 Million. Adjusted earnings per share increased 6% to $3.39.

“Our diversified international transportation services business generated record first quarter revenue, the seventh consecutive quarter of stable gross margin, and a 70-basis point improvement of adjusted selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of gross profit. New and used vehicle gross profit per unit retailed remained consistent and strong with new vehicle gross declining only $87 per unit while used vehicle gross increased $352 per unit when compared to the fourth quarter of 2024,” said Chair Roger Penske. Continue reading →

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Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 to Pace 109th Indianapolis 500

Posted on 29 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 to Pace 109th Indianapolis 500.

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The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will lead the field to the green flag for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday 25 May, Chevrolet announced today. Capable of 233 mph, the highest top speed of any car ever made in America by an auto manufacturer is up for any challenge. Michael Strahan, a Pro Football Hall of Fame member, has been named honorary Pace Car driver and will pace the field of 33 drivers in the Corvette ZR1 to start “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” (Read AutoInformed.com on Old Fashion Racing as Newgarden’s Daring Pass Wins Indy 500)*

“Chevrolet is proud that the 2025 Corvette ZR1, our fastest Corvette ever, will be the Official Pace Car for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500,” said Scott Bell, global Chevrolet vice president. Corvette has paced “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” more times than any car. The 2025 race marks the 36th time for Chevrolet to pace dating back to 1948 and the 22nd time overall, all since 1978, for what is arguably America’s sports car. Continue reading →

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First Look – Gen 2 Citroën C5 Aircross

Posted on 29 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on First look - Gen 2 Citroën C5 Aircross

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Citroën (NYSE: STLA) unveiled today the second-generation C5 Aircross SUV, which is the first Citroën built from the new Stellantis STLA Medium platform. It has a range of electrified powertrains – hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric. (read AutoInformed.com on Stellantis Bets the Company on STLA Frame, or Stellantis Unveils STLA AutoDrive)

“The New C5 Aircross offers greater peace of mind by incorporating driving aids that make life easier, such as the Citroën Matrix Leds or Pack drive Assist 2.0, and by offering a choice of several electrified energies to suit different needs, setting new standards in terms of freedom of movement: more than 100 km in electric mode in the plug-in hybrid version for everyday journeys in town, up to 680 km (WLTP combined cycle) in the electric version, and more than 950 km in the hybrid version (WLTP combined cycle),” Citroën said.* Continue reading →

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GM Cancels Q1 Earnings Call as Trump Chaos Prevails

Posted on 29 April 2025 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) this morning cancelled its long scheduled Q1 earnings call for media, shareholders and analysts, as Trump Tariff Chaos prevailed in Michigan, a state experiencing growing inflation and unemployment from the Trump mis-administration. General Motors earned $2.78 billion, which tallies to $3.35 per share for the three months ending March 31. During Q1 of 2024, GM earned $2.98 billion or $2.56 per share.

“Based on recent reports regarding updates to trade policy, GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra and GM Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson will now host a conference call for the investment community at 8:30 a.m. ET Thursday, May 1 instead of Tuesday, April 29 to discuss these results and GM’s updated 2025 full-year guidance. The company’s initial full year 2025 financial guidance does not contemplate the potential impact of tariffs” GM said. Continue reading →

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Toyota to Sell Fuel Cell Electric Class 8 Trucks in California

Posted on 28 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Toyota to Sell Fuel Cell Electric Class 8 Trucks in California

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Toyota Motor North America (NYSE: TM) today at the 2025 Advanced Clean Transportation Expo said it plans to introduce hydrogen trucks to the Southern California-based Toyota North American Parts Center fleet – NAPCC. This will be the North American debut of Toyota’s more efficient, more powerful Gen 3 FC system. (Read AutoInformed.com on Toyota Develops New 3rd Gen Fuel Cell System)*

“Hydrogen as a fuel – and especially fuel cells – offer benefits that can make a positive change, and we are invested in their long-term success,” said Toyota Group Vice President of Powertrain Engineering Jordan Choby. “We are investing in resources that we believe will lead to sustainable growth, both for our operations and the entire value chain in this still-evolving transportation sector.” Continue reading →

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McKinsey on EVs – China Most Advanced Region by Far

Posted on 28 April 2025 by Ken Zino

Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasing market share, cars are becoming more connected, and autonomous vehicles are gradually starting to appear on more streets worldwide. However, the transition to new technologies has not been without challenges and kinks, especially with consumer sentiment in the EV sector, according to the Annual Mobility Survey by the respected McKinsey & Company consultancy. Respondents came from China, Europe, and the United States. The 2025 survey released today is ongoing. It will eventually include respondents from nine countries [an unknown number of which Trump wants to takeover – AutoCrat].

“After rising rapidly for years, EV sales growth has slowed in many regions. Meanwhile, new competitors, especially those from China, are entering the EV market and attracting attention by offering innovative and technologically-sophisticated vehicles that are often more affordable than offerings from incumbents,” according to the detailed, multi-sourced McKinsey analysis.* Continue reading →

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Seat Belt and Electrical Recalls from Mercedes-Benz USA

Posted on 28 April 2025 by Ken Zino

Mercedes-Benz USA is recalling a previous recall for fuse boxes, electronic stability control programming and driver’s side seat belt covers, according to documents made public this morning by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. First, an incorrect fuse box that was not designed for the vehicle may have been installed. Second, the vehicle’s electronic stability program (ESP) may display an incorrect warning light during an ESP system failure. Third, the driver-side seat belt cover may not be properly installed on the seat belt tensioner, which can cause the seat belt anchor to come loose.

All told ~6700 vehicles are affected. NHTSA recall campaigns are 25V255 or 25V-255, 25V254 or 25V-254, 25V253 or 25V-253.* Planned owner notification dates are not until June 2025. Continue reading →

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Nissan Revised Outlook ¥700-750B Loss

Posted on 25 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Nissan Revised Outlook ¥700-750B Loss

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Nissan Motor (7201T and NSANY ADR) yesterday finally announced what is a substantial revision to its financial outlook for the full Japanese fiscal year ending 31 March 2025. As part of the revised outlook, Nissan expects to report a net loss of ¥700-750 billion for fiscal year 2024. The revision is due to costs related to its ongoing turnaround plan, and other factors. (read AutoInformed.com on: Nissan Motor Posts Disastrous First Half Results)*

“Compared with the outlook issued at the time of Nissan’s third quarter results in February, the forecast full-year sales volume has been lowered to 3.35 million units. Full-year net revenue is now expected to reach ¥12.6 trillion, with operating profit of ¥85 billion. This is primarily due to changes in the competitive environment and deterioration in sales performance,” Nissan said. Continue reading →

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UK Car Production Down. Trump’s Tariffs Threaten Future

Posted on 25 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on UK Car Production Down. Trump Tariff’s Threaten Future

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Car manufacturing  in March grew for the first time in 12 months, driven by strong export demand that increased by 30.6%, with almost three quarters (73.3%) of output shipped overseas. However, production for the UK market fell by -6.1%. Electrified vehicle production also rose, by 38.5% – more than twice the rate of total production – to 31,661 units, to account for almost half of all UK car output (45.0%), said the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)* today. (read AutoInformed.com on: Hybrid-Electric Cars Dominate EU Car Sales, Trump Tariffs – His Next Economic Catastrophe)

“A March uplift to manufacturing is overdue good news, although the performance was boosted by a comparatively weaker month last year, when holiday timings and product changeovers combined to reduce output. With the last quarter showing demand for British-built cars rising overseas, navigating the new era of trade uncertainty is now the major challenge. Government has rightly recognized automotive manufacturing’s critical role in Britain’s export economy and must now show urgency and creativity to deliver a deal that supports our competitiveness, spurs domestic demand for the latest cleanest vehicles, and helps factory lines flourish,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive. Continue reading →

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Hybrid-Electric Cars Dominate EU Car Sales

Posted on 24 April 2025 by Ken Zino
en Zino of AutoInformed.com on Hybrid-Electric Cars Dominate EU Car Sales

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During Q1 2025, new EU car registrations declined by 1.9% compared to Q1 2024, with March 2025 figures showing a slight 0.2% year-on-year (YOY) decline according to registration data released today by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, aka ACEA derived from its French name.* The battery-electric car market share stood at 15.2% market in Q1 2025, far from where it was expected to be by regulators and analysts. Hybrid electric models continue to grow in popularity, retaining their place as the most popular power type among buyers.

“Up until March 2025, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 15.2% of total EU market share, signifying an increase from the low baseline of 12% in Q1 2024. Hybrid-electric vehicles surged, capturing 35.5% of the market and remaining the preferred choice among EU consumers. Meanwhile, the combined market share of petrol and diesel cars fell to 38.3%, down from 48.3% over the same period in 2024,” ACEA said. Continue reading →

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Stellantis – Notable Progress in Solid State Batteries

Posted on 24 April 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Stellantis - Notable Progress in Solid State Batteries

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Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA) and Factorial Energy* today announced the successful validation of Factorial’s automotive-sized FEST® (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) solid-state battery cells. This feat claims to be  a significant step forward on the path to bringing next-generation electric vehicle (EV) batteries to market.

“Reaching this level of performance reflects the strengths of our collaboration with Factorial,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. “This breakthrough puts us at the forefront of the solid-state revolution, but we are not stopping there. We continue working together to push the boundaries and deliver even more advanced solutions, bringing us closer to lighter, more efficient batteries that reduce costs for our customers.” Continue reading →

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